Associate Review

On a day-to-day basis I work on preparing the majority of the workbooks. Depending on the time of year, this can range between controls testing (where we ensure that the controls our clients have in place are effective) and substantive testing (where we select random samples from breakdowns on the TB lines to receive support for and ensure they are recorded accurately).

I have definitely developed my excel skills and have found that I am able to memorise formulas and shortcuts within this application now which allows me to complete my work better. I have also learnt how to communicate in a professional way both face to face and over email which I use everyday when speaking to my colleagues and the client.

Whilst I have found it very tough coming straight from school into a full-time job, I also find this very rewarding and feel that it has allowed me to mature as a person. It is nice working in an environment with a clear structure and a range of ages as I find myself learning something new on a regular basis.

The programme has a very good structure, specifically with their buddy and counsellor system. It has been very helpful to me to have a 'counsellor' who has been through the same programme as me to talk to and go to if I have any concerns, etc. There is also transparency in the opportunities to progress which is a massive encouragement to do well.

As previously mentioned, I am very happy with the support that I receive from EY, specifically my counsellor who is a newly appointed manager, straight from the same apprenticeship scheme as myself. We have monthly feedback sessions where I can ask her questions and she is always quick to reply to any emails I send her as well. This system allows me to feel very supported in the workplace.

I receive emails on a regular basis detailing all of the resources available to me in order to work as hard as I can for my qualification. This has helped me to stay focused on finding time to revise as there is a range of resources to choose from. I also have been appointed a buddy by the training provider who emails us frequently asking if we have any questions, etc.

I would say that they both have appositive impact on each other. I had 7 days at college before starting on the job which showed me the basics and allowed me to start my job with some knowledge of what to do. As I have progressed in the job other the past 5 months, I have found that I have learnt a lot on the job which will then help me with passing my qualification.

There are plenty of activities available to me at EY which were all explained when we first started. Whilst I am not the most sporty, I have got involved with a series of networking events surrounding 'Women in Insurance'. These have included the female partners and senior managers discussing their experiences in working in Insurance Audit. I am looking forward to the next one!

Yes

I understand that the apprenticeship idea is not for everyone as the thought of a full-time job at 18 can be very scary. However, I have spoken to a few of my friends that are a year younger than me and considering an apprenticeship and have explained that EY is a very good one to choose. There is a lot of opportunity to make friends and socialise and the continued support allows you to feel comfortable and valued within the job. It is a lot better than I first expected and I feel honoured to work for one of the BIg Four accounting companies.

I would suggest that they research their chosen area in detail and try to reach out to anyone they know who may be doing an apprenticeship to hear more about the job role. This is key before applying as you need to ensure a job like this is definitely the right one for you before you sign up to it.